Sunscreens

By Jennifer Abney Anchor

Sunscreens are a must have here along the Gulf Coast, but which ones are best when it comes to protecting you? In part four of her special series Smart and Savvy Skin Solutions News 5's Jennifer Abney hit the store with a dermatologist. Sunscreens

Published: Thu, May 15, 2008 - 6:58 am Last Updated: Mon, July 28, 2008 - 9:52 pm

Jennifer Abney

All week long we've been looking at skin products and discovering which ones do what they claim and which ones are a waste of money. We wrap up our "Smart and Savvy Skin Solutions " series with a look at sunscreens, a must-have for anyone who spends time outdoors here in the sunny south.

“You get sun damage everyday, in your car, lunch with friends,” said dermatologist Dr. Heather Haley, “It's that daily sun that causes fine lines and wrinkles and sun spots.”

But, when it comes to the face many women have a big problem when it comes to the right sunscreen.

“When I use sunblock my face breaks out,” said Suzy Radcliff, “I would love to have a sunblock that would not break out my face.”

Dr. Haley says that is a common problem. She says its important to remember that everybody needs a sunscreen everyday.

“If that's the one point I could get across, don't save the sunscreen for the beach,” said Dr. Haley.

There are two types of sun screens available, chemical blockers and physical blockers.

Dr. Haley says that facial skin is more sensitive.

“We like physical blockers,” said Dr. Haley, “There are only two out there, zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, those are the ingredients to look for.”

There is also one sunscreen that stands out above the rest for Dr. Haley, Olay Complete .

“I love this sunscreen,” she said, “ can't always trust the number, 15 is fine as long as it has zinc oxide in it and I do like for it to say percentage.” She says 3 % zinc is good coverage.

Dr. Haley says this particular sunscreen can also serve as your daily moisturizer and can be worn under your make up.

“Keep it simple, get your moisturizer with your sunscreen,” she said.

And, then there are the products that seem almost too good to be true, Dr. Haley says some are just that.

We asked her about those popular anti cellulite lotions and toners.

“They don't do anything, don't waste your money,” said Dr. Haley, “Moisturizing in general will make your skin appear more tone.”

And, we didn't forget about the guys. Dr. Haley is often asked how to get rid of razor burn on the neck.

“Use a good shaving cream, moisterizing Aveeno and Neutrogena both are good ones,” she said, “For sensitive skin, after shave follow with a lotion that has an alpha hydroxy acid that will eliminate those little bumps.”

For kids, Dr. Haley likes Blue Lizard sunscreen. She says if you buy only one thing to protect your skin, sunscreen should be it! She recommends the Jergens' Natural Glow moisturizer if you do want a tanned appearance. But says the facial tanners can cause breakouts for some people. A powder bronzer for the face is your best bet.

Dr. Heather Haley will be on WKRG News 5 Friday morning in the 6am hour. If you have a skin care question email it to
mornings@wkrg.com and she just may answer it on the air!

Smart and Savvy Skin Solutions Part 1: Cleansers

Smart and Savvy Skin Solutions Part 2: Fighting Fine Lines and Wrinkles

Smart and Savvy Skin Solutions Part 3: Moisturizers and Make-Up

More information on the products Dr. Haley mentioned:

Blue Lizard sunscreen

Moisturizing Aveeno shaving cream

Neutrogena shaving cream

Olay Complete

Jergens' Natural Glow moisturizer